3rd Sunday of Epiphany
Opening Prayer Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Readings for 3rd Sunday of Epiphany: Isaiah 9.1-4; Psalm 27.1,4-12; 1 Corinthians 1.10-18; Matthew 4.12-23
Let us pray: May the words of my mouth and the thoughts and meditations of all our hearts be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, our strength and our redeemer. Amen
A word: In Isaiah we hear the prophecy that God is going to send a light to guide the people who are walking in darkness. The Psalm reminds us that the Lord is our light and salvation. The one who hears and helps us in times of trouble. The Lord who the psalmist wants to worship and listen to. In the gospel we hear that as John is arrested and imprisoned that God’s ministry continues through Jesus. First in his calling of his disciples and then through his teaching in the synagogues, proclaiming of the good news and healing of those in need. In Paul’s letter, we hear that as God’s people we must work together as we follow Christ and get on with preaching the gospel.
The Lord's Prayer Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be they name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive them that trespass against us. Deliver us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen
Prayer: Lord of all power and might, the author and giver of all good things: graft in our hearts the love of your name, increase in us true religion, nourish us with all goodness, make us perfect in your love and by your great mercy keep us in the same, so we may share in his glory; through Jesus Christ, your Son our Lord, the true vine and the source of life, ever giving himself that the world may live. Amen
Prayer of blessing: May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the Love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all, now and evermore. Amen.
Closing Note This message is sent to you with love and prayers as: a word of encouragement and a sign of hope.